The Surprising Truths About Colorectal Cancer (And Where to Get Screened)–Did you know if you’re over the age of 45, you’re already at risk for colorectal cancer? If you have bowel issues or family history, you’re even more so at risk. It’s Colorectal Cancer Awareness month and we’re informing moms about risks, prevention, and more here on Newsymom!

This is Public Health is brought to you in partnership with the Tuscarawas County Health Department.

What Is Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer (or in short, colon cancer) is a disease where colon or rectum cells grow out of control. The colon is made up of the large intestine (AKA large bowel), and the rectum is the connection between your colon and anus (known to the kiddos as the bootyhole).

The large intestine is where the poop-making happens. Its job is to take your food waste and make some poop, then send it on its way to the rectum. When the stool hits your rectum, nerves send signals notifying that it’s go-time! (i.e. Find a toilet.)

During the early stages of colon cancer, it’s possible not to display any symptoms. However, if you experience any of the following symptoms, you need to call your medical provider right away:

• Bowel habits changing
• Blood in your poop
• Diarrhea, constipation, or not feeling empty after having a bowel movement
• Abdominal aches or pains that won’t go away
• Weight loss with unknown cause

In some cases, colon cancer can be discovered in the form of polyps (abnormal growths) that have grown over time into cancer. Screen yourself now to find these silent threats to your colon health!

What Puts Me At Risk For Colorectal Cancer?

The top risk is getting older, which is why it’s recommended to start screening at age 45. Other factors include:

• Having IBS (such as Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis)
• A personal or family history of colorectal cancer/polyps
• Certain genetic syndromes
• Poor lifestyle habits like:
  • Low physical activity
  • Low fruit and vegetable diet intake
  • Low-fiber diet (and high-fat or processed meat diet)
  • Being overweight or obese
  • Drinking alcohol or consuming tobacco products

Prevention

Though you have no control over your genetics, the best thing you can do to prevent colon cancer is get regularly screened, starting at age 45. Almost all colon cancers start as abnormal growths which is why seeing your provider is so important for your colon health!

To find a provider, call the Tuscarawas County Health Department at (330) 343-5555 x. 100. They will help you find the provider you need to give you peace of mind!

Some studies say you can reduce your risk of colon cancer by doing some physical activity, keeping a healthy weight, reducing alcohol consumption, and cutting out tobacco. However, eating healthier options, eliminating processed foods as much as possible, and drinking lots of water make your belly (and body) happier, too!

Check out this hilarious video provided by the CDC titled, “The Bums and The Bees”. A father talks to his son about the importance of screening.

About Colorectal Cancer Screenings

Screening tests are done when someone doesn’t display symptoms, but preemptively checks to avoid disastrous news about their health. For colorectal cancer screening, you’ll speak with your provider to come up with a game plan on when you should start screening, which test to have done, and how often you should get it done.

Take The Next Step For Your Colon Health!

Call the Tuscarawas County Health Department at (330) 343-5555, x. 100 to schedule an appointment with one of their medical providers to see if a colonoscopy is recommended. Their medical providers welcome new patients.

Melissa Klatt

Reporting